Here are 10 tips on how to keep your bike safe during the rainy season
The rainy season is a time of cooler weather and beautiful rides, but it's also when your bike will get wet, muddy, rusted and slick on wet roads. If your bike is exposed to moisture for too long without the proper care, it could lead to more expensive repairs, lower longevity, and its performance could be impacted.
These are a few tips to keep your bike in great condition for all your riding, be it for commuting or weekend rides.
1. Maintain a clean bike.
The rainy season is when dirt, mud, and grime from the roads quickly collect. When they are not attended to, they can trap moisture and promote corrosion.
After riding through muddy roads, thoroughly clean your bike, particularly the wheels, chain, underbody and engine area. Remove any moisture, dirt, or grease with a soft microfiber cloth after cleaning to avoid water spots and rust.
2. Regularly lubricate the Chain.
Your bike's chain may have lost the lubricant during the rain, resulting in friction, rust and wear.
If you ride in the rain regularly, clean the chain every few days and apply a good wet-weather chain lubricant to it. Chain Lubrication increases performance and drivetrain life.
3. Check the Brakes Frequently
When roads are wet, braking is less effective, so it's even more crucial to have regular checks on your brakes.
Always make sure that brake pads are in good condition and replace them if they are worn too much. Keep disc rotors clean and free of mud and oil if your bike is equipped with disc brakes.
4. Check the condition of tyres.
The only thing that touches the road is your tyres. Rainy season riding requires good traction to ride safely.
Regularly check tyre pressure and check the tread depth. Old tyres should be replaced to minimise the potential for skidding on wet surfaces.
5. Protect Against Rust
Rust is among the primary causes of motorcycle issues, and one of the most common causes of it is moisture.
Spray or coat exposed metal surfaces such as chain, nuts, bolts and chrome surfaces with anti-rust spray. Drying your bike after riding on a wet day will also help to keep it from rusting.
6. Begin your tour to see the Covered Area and the various spots it offers.
If you can, park your bike in a garage or under a shelter. If you don't have covered parking, make sure to use a waterproof, breathable bike cover that will keep the bike dry but still let moisture out as it drips.
7. Inspect Electrical Components
Electrical connections may be compromised in the event of heavy rain if they are not well-sealed.
Test headlights, indicators, horn and brake lights regularly. Also, inspect the battery contacts for corrosion, and keep them clean to give reliable performance.
8. Maintain the Cleanness of the Air Filter
Rainwater combined with dust can increase the dirtiness of the air filter, especially during the monsoon season.
Check the air filter frequently and thoroughly clean or replace it as required by your motorcycle's service manual.
9. Avoid Waterlogged Roads
It might seem like a great idea to ride through flooded streets, but water can ruin your electrical parts, bearings, exhaust system and engine.
When in doubt, take a safer alternate route.
10. Drive and Bicycle Safely in the Rain
Bike maintenance is not the only thing to consider when riding in rainy conditions. Your riding style is just as important.
Slow down, make large gaps between cars and bikes, and do not accelerate or brake too quickly. Use a proper helmet, ensure a clear visor and rain gear with reflectivity to increase visibility for both you and others.
Final Thoughts
Some additional attention during the rainy season can make a big difference to the performance, safety and longevity of your bike. Cleaning regularly, lubricating properly, scheduled inspection and safe riding techniques will ensure worry-free trips, even in the heaviest of rains.
These basic monsoon vehicle care tips will help preserve the safety and smoothness of each ride and preserve your investment for the entire season.
